Paul Clouse and Al Hurwitz trolled Los Vaqueros Reservoir on December 4, 2025. We trolled Peninsula, East, and Howden Coves, hooking up with 6 Mount Lassen Rainbow Trout, landing 5, most weighing between 2-3 pounds. Two of the fish are pictured here. There were an additional 6 strikes which didn’t result in hookups. Initially the morning fish strikes appeared to be “slashing” the lures, as opposed to definitive head on strikes, resulting in failed hook sets. The majority of the fish were caught in the back of Howden Cove near underwater structure and surface cover, while trolling spoons at a 10 foot depth in 15-20 foot water columns. Scent was applied to the lures. Jointed Rapalas were only partially successful today. All of the fish were released in good condition.

It was a cold foggy day. The water was 
very clear with a surface temperature of 61 degrees. The water temperature and clarity were very suitable for trolling for Rsinbow Trout.

All in all, a successful day! We thank the Los Vaqueros staff for their great help in getting us on and off the water. We plan to return soon. 

All the best,
Paul Clouse, Lafayette 
Dr. Al Hurwitz, Saratoga